Mizuho, Nomura, and other institutions will conduct a proof-of-concept experiment for digital collateral management of Japanese government bonds based on the Canton Network.

Mizuho Financial Group, Nomura Holdings, Japan Securities Clearing Corporation (JSCC), and Digital Asset Holdings have jointly launched a proof-of-concept experiment on blockchain-based collateral management enhancement. This experiment will leverage the Canton Network—a blockchain platform designed specifically for institutional finance—to explore digital collateral management using Japanese Government Bonds (JGBs). The experiment will test JGB rights transfers and ledger updates via blockchain under a multi-tiered account management structure, and will explore enabling 24/7, real-time collateral transactions while preserving the existing legal attributes of issued securities. It will also cover cross-border scenarios and assess alignment with relevant laws, regulations, and rules. This project is part of the “Payment Enhancement Project (PIP)” supported by Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA), aiming to improve cross-border collateral management efficiency, reduce operational costs for financial institutions and investors, and strengthen the international competitiveness of Japan’s financial markets.